Basenji Pictures (Basenji Dog Photo Gallery)

Basenjis are a unique breed of dog that originated in Africa. They are known for their short coat, sleek body, and pointy ears (you’ll see plenty in our best Basenji pictures collection!)

Basenjis are also characterized by their vocalizations, which include yodeling and howling. They are a very active breed and require plenty of exercise.

We love Basenji dogs and have a writer on our site who owns and writes almost exclusively about them! (Her dog’s name is Benji).

On this page, you will see our extensive image gallery showing all four common coat colors of Basenji as well as plenty of Basenji puppy photos.

curly tailed basenji
There is no mistaking a curly tailed Basenji

Despite their wild appearance, Basenjis are actually adorable and loving dogs. They make great pets for families with older children who can give them the exercise they need. Basenjis are also very clean dogs and are not prone to shedding or drooling.

A running Basenji leaping through the air.
A running Basenji leaping through the air. They are FAST!

Basenjis are considered to be very active dogs. They love to run and play, and they require a good deal of exercise each day. If they don’t get enough exercise, they can become restless and destructive. Basenjis also enjoy a good game of fetch, and they make great jogging partners.

A red and white Basenji wearing a snow coat.
A red and white Basenji wearing a snow coat.

Even skinny dogs like Basenji’s can thrive in the snow – but sometimes they need boots or a coat.

A Basenji puppy sleeping on the couch.
A Basenji puppy sleeping on the couch.

Although they can be speedy and active – most Basenji dogs still love a snooze!

Offering a Basenji dog a treat during reward based training.
Offering a Basenji dog a treat during reward based training.

One of the biggest positives of reward based training for dogs is that it is positive reinforcement. This means that dogs are rewarded for good behavior, which in turn encourages them to continue performing that behavior.

A naught Basenji looking to steal some food from the kitchen counter. Opportunistic!
A naught Basenji looking to steal some food from the kitchen counter. Opportunistic!

In addition, reward based training is often very successful, as dogs quickly learn what behaviors earn them a reward. This makes training much easier and faster than if you were to try and train your dog using only punishment.

basenji dog eye wipe
Like many small dogs, Basenji’s need eye gunk removed – preferably before they dry. Dog eye wipes help but any cloth can do.

Even though the Basenji coat is low maintenance, it is easy to maintain. They do get eye gunk and need an ear wipe for smell and bacteria occasionally.

A Basenji dog has its nails clipped
A Basenji dog has its nails clipped

I rarely meet dogs that enjoy having their nails clipped! Play with your Basenji’s paws from a young age to familiarize them with being touched.

A naught Basenji looking to steal some food from the kitchen counter. Opportunistic!
A naught Basenji looking to steal some food from the kitchen counter. Opportunistic!

There are no wild dietary requirements for Basenji dogs.

A happy full grown Basenji wearing a no pull harness
A happy full grown Basenji wearing a no pull harness

If you like walks and smaller hikes – A Basenji could be a great match for you.

a small basenji looks a an all white husky
A small Basenji looks at a white Husky. What a mix!

Basenji dogs generally get along well with other dogs. They are typically playful and enjoy spending time with their canine companions. However, there are always a few exceptions.

basenji dog looking happy as it explore a hedge
A happy Basenjoy dog explores a hedge. Red and white markings.

Have you ever noticed that Basenji dogs look a little like an Asutralian Dingo?

a Basenji guessing which paw a treat is in
Basenjis are quite good at nosework, like this puppy guessing which hand the treat is in.

You will be able to teach many commands and tricks (including scent training) to your Basenji

an owner kisses a tiny Basenji puppy
Kissing an incredibly small Basenji puppy!

You can see the paws already are fair in size – so expect a standard sized Basenji.

a basenji with a small child
A Basenji licks the face of a small dog

Basenji’s can be really good with kids – but your mileage may vary. Thoughtful introductions are important.

three colors of Basenji puppies
Three different colored Basenji puppies from the same litter. Tri color, black and white, and red and white.
  • Black and white Basenji
  • Red and white Basenji
  • And a Tri-Color Basenji in the middle!
A full grown Black and White Basenji sits on the grass
A full grown Black and White Basenji sits on the grass

An attentive black and white Basenji in a gorgeous flowery field.

An owner sits with her larger red and white Basenji. Not so small!
An owner sits with her larger red and white Basenji. Not so small!

Some Basenji dogs are mixes and you will see a heavier set or stockier torso.

red and white basenji puppies
Two Basenji puppies are playbiting each other.

Puppy playbiting is normal because it is how puppies learn how to interact with each other. It helps them to develop their teeth and jaws, and it also teaches them how to bite softly.

training a tricolor Basenji puppy
In the process of training a tricolor Basenji puppy

These dogs are FAST and often have… dubious recall until taught. Train carefully, repetitively, and kindly.

a white and red basenji sleeping on a bed
A white and red Basenji sleeping on a bed. Comfortable!

Look at these clearly differentiated red and white colors. So distinct!

a cute basenji with a colorful harness
A cute Basenji with a colorful harness. Good boy!

I love the contrast of blue colors and the rich red Basenji color.

a Basenji doing the dance trick
A Basenji does a dance trick. Easy to teach!

Basenji dogs are very trainable – and enjoy reward based training.

basenji dog with a simple harness
A Basenji dog wearing a simple restraint harness.

Even a trained Basenji can sometimes struggle with recall – so on leash is a strong suggestion.

The floppy face of a Basenji smiling
Basenji dogs have a surprising amount of loose skin on their face!
patting a Basenji on the head
Patting a happy red and white Basenji

Despite not really barking, Basenjis are very good at expressing how they feel!

hiking with a Basenji dog
Even though they are small, some Basenji dogs take to hiking and long walks

Basenjis are not a marathon running dog – but hardier than you might think on appearance.

patting a happy red basenji on the head
Have you ever seen a happier red Basenji?
A Basenji sits on a mans lap and sleeps.
A full grown Basenji snoozes in a lap. Taking lap dog to next levels!

If you are a coffee lover – consider a coffee themed dog name for your new Basenji dog!

A Basenji being asked to wait during training
A Basenji being asked to wait during training. They respond to movements as well as verbal cues.

Basenji dogs are considered to be one of the smartest breeds of dogs. They are also very trainable and can be taught to perform a variety of tricks.

A tri color Basenji gazes lovingly at its owner.
A tri color Basenji gazes lovingly at its owner. The feeling is mutual!